French conquest of Algeria

The French conquest of Algeria (1830-1847) was the first major European invasion of Africa, occurring when the French drove out the Dey of Algiers (a vassal of the Ottoman Empire) and began the occupation of Algeria. The coastal regions were swiftly subdued, but a determined resistance movement grew up around the figure of Abd al-Qadir. As France continued its conquests he proclaimed a holy war against the invading infidels. The French retaliated with a brutal scorched earth policy and eventually occupied his headquarters at Mascara. In 1844 the Sultan of Morocco intervened but was defeated by the French. al-Qadir eventually surrendered in 1847. Algeria soon became an important source of troops for the French army, notably the zouaves, who served as light infantry.